Articles for category: Plants

Annette Uy

Can We Bring Back Extinct Plants? The Science of Botanical De-Extinction

Can We Bring Back Extinct Plants? The Science of Botanical De-Extinction

In the vast tapestry of Earth’s history, many plants have flourished and faded away, leaving only fossils and fleeting memories. Today, with the advent of advanced science and biotechnology, we are at a pivotal moment where the possibility of resurrecting these lost botanical wonders is within reach. The notion of bringing back extinct plants, often ...

Annette Uy

resurrection plant

The Resurrection Plants: How Some Species Come Back to Life After Droughts

Imagine a plant that appears to be withered and lifeless, only to spring back to life with the first drops of rain. This is not a scene from a fantasy novel, but a real-life phenomenon observed in nature. Known as “resurrection plants,” these remarkable species have captured the fascination of scientists and nature enthusiasts alike. ...

Microalgae.

Could Microalgae Solve the World’s Food and Energy Crisis? The Science Behind Algae Farming

In a world grappling with the dual challenges of food scarcity and energy shortages, the search for sustainable solutions has never been more urgent. Enter microalgae, an unassuming yet powerful organism that has the potential to revolutionize how we address these global crises. With their remarkable efficiency in converting sunlight into energy and nutrients, microalgae ...

Trizzy Orozco

Antarctic Moss.

How Antarctic Moss Can Survive Being Frozen for 1,500 Years

The icy expanses of Antarctica are home to some of the most resilient life forms on Earth. Among these tenacious organisms, Antarctic moss stands out as a remarkable survivor. Imagine a plant that can endure the harshest climates, lying dormant under layers of ice for centuries, only to spring back to life when the conditions ...

Trizzy Orozco

Mycelium of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi with false color.

How Plants Secretly Communicate Through Underground Fungal Networks

Beneath our feet lies a bustling communication network, more intricate than any human-made system. This network, often called the “Wood Wide Web,” connects plants through miles of underground fungal threads. It’s a world that remains hidden from the naked eye yet plays a crucial role in the survival and thriving of plant ecosystems. The concept ...

Trizzy Orozco

Close-up photography of lichens.

Lichen: The Alien-Like Organisms That Can Survive in Space

Lichens are among the most fascinating life forms on Earth, blending the properties of fungi and algae to create a symbiotic relationship that defies conventional existence. Their resilience and adaptability have captured the attention of scientists and nature enthusiasts alike. Imagine an organism capable of surviving the harshest environments on Earth, only to be rocketed ...

The roots of a mangrove tree.

Mangrove Restoration Efforts in Singapore: Reviving Coastal Ecosystems

Singapore, a bustling metropolis famed for its urban landscape, harbors a lesser-known natural treasure: mangroves. These coastal ecosystems play a crucial role in maintaining biodiversity, protecting shorelines, and mitigating climate change. However, like many natural habitats, they face threats from urbanization and environmental changes. The island-nation has embarked on an inspiring journey to restore these ...